U.S. patent application number 15/443247 was filed with the patent office on 2018-01-04 for applicator for feminine care product.
The applicant listed for this patent is The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Gustavo Jose Camargo-Parodi, John Ferrer, Benjamin Philip Goodman.
Application Number | 20180000658 15/443247 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58347898 |
Filed Date | 2018-01-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180000658 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Camargo-Parodi; Gustavo Jose ;
et al. |
January 4, 2018 |
APPLICATOR FOR FEMININE CARE PRODUCT
Abstract
An array of feminine care products having a first applicator and
a second applicator. Each of the first applicator and second
applicator having a barrel portion having an insertion end and a
grip end disposed opposite the insertion end of the barrel portion;
and a plunger slidingly engaged with the barrel portion. The first
applicator comprises a first color. The second applicator comprises
a second color. Each of the first applicator and the second
applicator comprises an onset crystallization temperature. The
onset crystallization temperature of the first applicator and the
onset crystallization temperature of the second applicator differ
by less than 0.4 degrees Celsius and the opacity of each of the
first applicator and the second applicator is greater than 41%.
Inventors: |
Camargo-Parodi; Gustavo Jose;
(Mason, OH) ; Ferrer; John; (Mason, OH) ;
Goodman; Benjamin Philip; (Cincinnati, OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
The Procter & Gamble Company |
Cincinnati |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58347898 |
Appl. No.: |
15/443247 |
Filed: |
February 27, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62301241 |
Feb 29, 2016 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 13/26 20130101;
A61F 13/2077 20130101; A61F 13/2097 20130101; A61F 13/266
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 13/26 20060101
A61F013/26; A61F 13/20 20060101 A61F013/20 |
Claims
1. An array of feminine care products comprising: a first product
comprising a first applicator and a second product comprising a
second applicator, wherein each of the first applicator and second
applicator comprise a barrel portion comprising an insertion end
and a grip end disposed opposite the insertion end of the barrel
portion; and a plunger slidingly engaged with the barrel portion;
wherein the barrel portion and the plunger of each of the first
applicator and second applicator comprise a polyolefin resin,
wherein the first applicator comprises a first color, wherein the
second applicator comprises a second color, wherein each of the
first applicator and the second applicator comprises an onset
crystallization temperature, wherein the onset crystallization
temperature of the first applicator and the onset crystallization
temperature of the second applicator differ by less than 0.4
degrees Celsius, and wherein the opacity of each of the first
applicator and the second applicator is greater than 41%.
2. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
opacity of each of the first applicator and the second applicator
is greater than 41% and less than 75%.
3. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
plungers for each of the applicators of the first product and
second product are unitary.
4. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
plungers for each of the applicators of the first product and
second product comprise an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve,
wherein the inner sleeve is slidingly engaged with the outer
sleeve.
5. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
first feminine care product is selected from the group comprising
tampons and pessaries.
6. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
onset crystallization temperature of each of the first applicator
and the second applicator is less 109 degrees Celsius.
7. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
onset crystallization temperature of each of the first applicator
and the second applicator is greater than 107 degrees Celsius.
8. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
first applicator barrel portion comprises the first color and
wherein the first applicator plunger comprises a third color.
9. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
first color comprises an a* between -128 and 128 and a b* between
-128 and 128, wherein the second color comprises an a* between -128
and 128 and a b* between -128 and 128, and wherein the first color
a*and the second color a* differ by less than 20.
10. The array of feminine care products of claim 1, wherein the
first product and the second product are offered from same
manufacturer and wherein the first color is not equal to the second
color.
11. The array of feminine care products of claim 9, wherein the
first applicator is offered for sale during a first time period and
the second applicator is offered for sale during a second time
period, wherein the first time period and the second time period
are not the same.
12. The array of feminine products of claim 1, wherein the first
applicator comprises an onset crystallization temperature of about
107+_0.4 degrees Celsius, an opacity of greater than 50%, and an a*
of negative 100 to positive 100.
13. The array of feminine care products of claim 9, wherein the
first color a* is between 0 and 128.
14. An array of feminine care products comprising: a first product
and a second product, each of the first product and second product
having an applicator, wherein each of the applicators of the first
product and second product comprise a barrel portion comprising an
insertion end and a grip end disposed opposite the insertion end of
the barrel portion; and a plunger slidingly engaged with the barrel
portion; wherein the barrel portion and the plunger of each of the
applicators of the first product and the second product comprise
plastic, wherein the applicator for the first product comprises a
first color and wherein the applicator for the second product
comprises a second color, wherein a .DELTA.a* between the first
color and the second color is between about less than 20, and
wherein each of the applicators of the first product and second
product comprise an onset crystallization temperature of less than
109 degrees Celsius, wherein the difference between the onset
crystallization temperatures is less than about 0.4 degrees
Celsius.
15. The array of feminine care products of claim 14, wherein the
each of the first applicator and the second applicator have an
opacity and wherein the opacity of each of the first applicator and
the second applicator is greater than 41 and less than 75.
16. The array of claim 14, wherein the plungers for each of the
applicators of the first product and second product are
unitary.
17. The array of claim 14, wherein the plungers for each of the
applicators of the first product and second product comprise an
outer sleeve and an inner sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve is
slidingly engaged with the outer sleeve.
18. The array of feminine care products of claim 14, wherein the
first feminine care product is selected from the group comprising
tampons and pessaries.
19. The array of feminine care products of claim 14, wherein the
applicator for the first product and the applicator for the second
product are configured the same.
20. The array of feminine care products of claim 14, wherein the
opacity of the applicator for the first product is between 60 and
80 and the opacity of the applicator for the second product is
between 40 and 55.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to an array of
applicators having preferred onset crystallization temperatures and
opacity values, more specifically to applicators for feminine
hygiene products.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Feminine care products, such as tampons and pessaries, are
generally used by women within the vagina, such as, e.g., to absorb
menstrual or other body exudates, for pelvic support, and/or for
other feminine needs. Such feminine products can be inserted into
the vagina digitally, such as, e.g., by using a finger, or can be
inserted into the vagina by using an applicator.
[0003] Applicators typically comprise an insertion member and a
plunger. The material to be expelled from the applicator, such as
an absorbent tampon or pessary, can be positioned within the
insertion member. The insertion member can have a first end for
insertion of the material and a second end for receipt of the
plunger. To use the applicator, the consumer will grasp the
insertion member, position the first end appropriately, such as,
e.g., into the body, and move the plunger in the insertion member
towards the first end to insert the material.
[0004] Based on the foregoing, fit between the plunger and the
insertion member are very important. If the fit between the plunger
and the insertion member is too tight, the force needed to expel
the material from the insertion member can dramatically increase.
In contrast, if the fit between the insertion member and the
plunger is too loose, the plunger could disengage from the
insertion member. This could potentially lead to an unsanitary
condition, e.g. if the plunger falls on the floor.
[0005] Applicators can be made up of different materials. For
example, currently available in market there are applicators which
comprise cardboard and applicators which comprise plastic.
Applicators are provided in a myriad of colors. However, the move
from one color of applicator to a different colored applicator is
far from trivial. Particularly for plastic applicators, the
introduction of a new/different pigment to produce the different
color can modify the shrinkage rate of the plastic in the
applicator. Unfortunately, this modification can negatively impact
the fit between the insertion member and the plunger.
[0006] Based on the foregoing, it would be desirable to provide an
array of applicators comprising differing colors which have similar
dimension and fit. It would also be desirable to provide a method
of producing applicators of different colors and/or a method of
changing applicator colors from a first color without negatively
impacting the dimensional fit between parts. Also, it would be
beneficial to provide an applicator having a color with acceptable
dimensions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An array of feminine care products having a first applicator
and a second applicator. Each of the first applicator and second
applicator having a barrel portion having an insertion end and a
grip end disposed opposite the insertion end of the barrel portion;
and a plunger slidingly engaged with the barrel portion. The first
applicator comprises a first color. The second applicator comprises
a second color. Each of the first applicator and the second
applicator comprises an onset crystallization temperature. The
onset crystallization temperature of the first applicator and the
onset crystallization temperature of the second applicator differ
by less than 0.4 degrees Celsius and the opacity of each of the
first applicator and the second applicator is greater than 41%.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an applicator comprising a barrel
and a plunger.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a DSC curve with Calculated Onset Temperature of
Crystallization (OTX).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0010] As used herein, "array" means a display of packages
comprising disposable articles of different sizes having like
article constructions (e.g., same elastomeric materials
[compositionally and/or structurally] in the flaps, graphic
elements) said packages having the same brand and/or sub-brand, and
said packages oriented in proximity to each other in a given area
of a retail store. An array is marketed as a line-up of products
normally having like packaging elements (e.g., packaging material
type, film, paper, dominant color, design theme, etc.) that convey
to consumers that the different individual packages are part of a
larger line-up. Arrays often have the same brand, for example,
"Always," and same sub-brand, for example, "Radiant." A different
array may have the brand "Always" and the sub-brand "Pearl."
Furthermore, the packaging may be distinctly different. Arrays also
often have the same trademarks, including trademarks of the brand,
sub-brand, and/or features and/or benefits across the line-up.
"On-line Array" means an "Array" distributed by a common on-line
source.
[0011] As used herein, the term "feminine care product" includes
absorbent articles useful for feminine needs, such as articles that
typically can be intended for feminine use internally, such as,
e.g., within a user's vagina. Internal feminine care products can
include, for example, tampons and pessaries.
[0012] As used herein, the term "pessary" refers to any type of
substantially non-absorbent structure for the purpose of reducing
urine leakage and/or supporting a prolapsed uterus and/or bladder.
Such pessaries can have any variety of shapes and sizes including
cylinder, ovate, spherical, tubular, annual rings, "U" shaped, cup
shaped, rings, cubes or donut shaped, and can function in any
suitable manner, such as, e.g., by direct application of support,
lever force, expansion of the device by selection of material,
and/or by inflation of the device.
[0013] As used herein, the term "vaginal canal" refers to the
internal genitalia of the human female in the pudendal region of
the body. The terms "vaginal canal" or "within the vagina" as used
herein are intended to refer to the space located between the
introitus of the vagina (sometimes referred to as the sphincter of
the vagina) and the cervix.
[0014] As used herein "applicator" refers to a device or implement
that facilitates the insertion of a tampon, medicament, pessary,
treatment device, visualization aid, or other into an external
orifice of a mammal, such as the vagina, rectum, ear canal, nasal
canal, or throat. Non-limiting specific examples of such include
any known hygienically designed applicator that is capable of
receiving a tampon may be used for insertion of a tampon, including
the so-called telescoping, tube and plunger, and the compact
applicators, an applicator for providing medicament to an area for
prophylaxis or treatment of disease, a spectroscope containing a
microcamera in the tip connected via fiber optics, a speculum of
any design, a tongue depressor, a tube for examining the ear canal,
a narrow hollow pipe for guiding surgical instruments, and the
like.
[0015] As used herein, "compression" refers to the process of
pressing, squeezing, compacting or otherwise manipulating the size,
shape, and/or volume of a material to obtain a tampon having a
vaginally insertable shape. The term "compressed" refers to the
state of a material or materials subsequent to compression.
Conversely, the term "uncompressed" refers to the state of a
material or materials prior to compression. The term "compressible"
is the ability of a material to undergo compression.
[0016] The term "cross-section" as used herein, is any 5 mm thick
section of the tampon orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.
[0017] As used herein, "fluid wicking" refers to the ability of a
material to carry fluid or moisture by capillary action. The fluid
wicking capacity of a medium may be measured by grams of fluid
drawn per gram of tampon weight over a fixed period of time.
[0018] The term "folded" as used herein, is the configuration of
the tampon pledget that may be incidental to lateral compaction of
the absorbent material or may purposely occur prior to a
compression step. Such a configuration is readily recognizable, for
example, when the absorbent material abruptly changes direction
such that one part of the absorbent material bends and lies over
another part of the absorbent material.
[0019] As used herein, "generally cylindrical" refers to the usual
shape of tampons as is well known in the art, but which also
includes oblate or partially flattened cylinders, curved cylinders,
and shapes which have varying cross-sectional areas (such as a
Coke.TM. bottle shape). The longitudinal axis refers to the longest
linear dimension of the tampon. The cross-section refers to a slice
taken at right angles to the longitudinal axis.
[0020] As used herein, the term "insertion end" refers to the
portion of the tampon or applicator including the end that is
intended to enter the vaginal canal first when inserting the tampon
or applicator into the vaginal canal.
[0021] As used herein, the term "longitudinal axis" of a tampon
refers to the axis that runs through the center of the tampon as
shown in FIG. 1. A portion of the tampon may be asymmetric about
the longitudinal axis, such as when the withdrawal end region is
flared and distorted from the original shape of the rest of the
tampon (such as a "fin shape"). Further, the longitudinal axis may
be linear or non-linear.
[0022] As used herein, "overwrap" refers to the liquid pervious
material covering the exterior surface of the absorbent member. The
overwrap may permeate the inner region of a compressed absorbent
member. The overwrap may extend below the withdrawal end to form a
skirt portion. The overwrap may be fluid wicking. The overwrap, as
defined herein, may possess a horizontal wicking capacity of at
least about 2, alternatively from about 3 to about 6 grams of fluid
per gram of tampon at a 500 second interval. Suitable overwraps are
disclosed in greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,840,927 and U.S.
Pat. No. 7,112,192, filed Nov. 18, 2002, entitled "Tampon With an
Overwrap or Overwraps Having Both Masking and Wicking Properties,"
issued to Hasse, et al.
[0023] As used herein, the term "tampon," refers to any type of
absorbent structure that is inserted into the vaginal canal or
other body cavities for the absorption of fluid therefrom, to aid
in wound healing, or for the delivery of active materials, such as
medicaments, or moisture.
[0024] The "outer surface" of a tampon refers to the visible
surface of the (compressed and/or shaped) tampon prior to use
and/or expansion. At least part of the outer surface may be smooth
or alternatively may have topographic features, such as ribs,
spiraling ribs, a mesh pattern, or other topographical features.
Typically, tampons are constructed from an absorbent material,
which has been compressed and/or shaped in any or all of the width
direction, the radial direction, and the axial direction, in order
to provide a tampon which is of a size and stability to allow
insertion within the vagina or other body cavity.
[0025] As used herein, the term "radial axis" of a tampon refers to
the axis that runs at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the
tampon as shown in FIG. 1.
[0026] The term "rolled," as used herein, is the configuration of
the tampon pledget after winding the absorbent material upon
itself.
[0027] The term "vaginally insertable shape" as used herein refers
to the geometrical form of the absorbent tampon after compression.
The tampon may be compressed into a generally cylindrical
configuration in the radial direction along the longitudinal and/or
lateral axes, axially, or in both the radial and axial directions.
An example of a typical compressed tampon may be one which may be
about 10-16 mm wide and about 40-50 mm long depending on the level
of absorbency. While the tampon may be compressed into a
substantially cylindrical configuration, other shapes are possible.
These may include shapes having a cross section that may be
described as rectangular, trapezoidal, seni-circular, hourglass, or
other suitable shapes.
[0028] As used herein, the term "withdrawal end" refers to the
portion of the applicator opposite the insertion end.
[0029] As used herein, "cm" is centimeter, "mm" is millimeter, "g"
is gram, "gsm" is grams per meter squared, "dpf" is denier per
fiber, "g/g" is gram of fluid per gram of sample, "wt" is weight,
"psi" is pound per square inch.
[0030] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and
described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that
various other changes and modifications can be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The array of
applicators described herein use two or more polymer resins having
an onset crystallization temperature that is within 0.4 degrees
Celsius of the other polymer resins. Each of the applicators has an
opacity of greater than 50%. The applicators may be a typical "tube
and plunger" type arrangement and may be plastic or other suitable
material. Additionally, a "compact" type applicator is also
suitable. Where the tampon is shaped and provides aesthetic appeal
to consumers, it is may be desirable to combine the shaped tampon
with an applicator type which enables the user to observe at least
a portion or the whole shape of the shaped tampon. Two techniques
which allow the user to better notice the shape of the tampon are
to either make visual observation possible through the use of a
translucent or even transparent applicator materials, or to provide
a tampon applicator insertion end that better follows and hence
better displays the profiled shape of the enclosed shaped tampon
than the typical commercial tampon applicators comprising
straight-walled cylindrical inserter tubes often made from molded
plastic or laminated cardboard tubes. The applicator may be
flushable as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,057, filed Mar. 16,
2001, entitled "Flushable Tampon Applicators," issued to Zhao, et
al. The applicator may be corrugated as described in U.S. Pat. No.
7,066,870, filed Jun. 25, 2002, entitled "Method of Producing a
Corrugated Tampon Applicator," issued to Fedyk, et al.
[0031] The applicator may have a grip region as described in U.S.
Pat. Nos. 8,303,558; 7,081,110; 8,449, 491; or 8,075,512. The
applicator may have an absorbency indicator as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 7,166,101, filed Dec. 9, 2005, entitled "Tampon Outer
Surface Having Increasing Number of Written Identifiers to Indicate
Absorbency," issued to Denti, et al. The grip region may have
visual indicia. Any visual indicia suitable from distinguishing the
grip portion from the barrel portion and/or the plunger can be
used, such as, e.g., color, such as, e.g., a contrasting color
and/or a coordinating color, sheen, such as, e.g., a glossy or
matte finish, shimmer, any type of mark, figure, picture,
identification code, symbol, icon, pattern, text, such as, e.g., a
word, number, nomenclature, sentence, or instruction, line, line
segment, curved line, band, arrow, area of coloration, or any other
printed indicia having a purpose of providing a signal or guide to
the user.
[0032] The tube or barrel portion can be constructed from any
suitable material. Suitable materials include, for example, any
combinations thereof, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene,
polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate,
polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylamide, polyamide, nylon, polyimide,
polyester, polycarbonate, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoate,
ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, silicone, thermoplastic
starch, trans-poly isoprene, derivatives thereof, copolymers
thereof, mixtures thereof, or any suitable smooth plastic material.
Examples of suitable materials are disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,346,468 and 5,558,631. In certain embodiments, additives can
be included in the material to alter or enhance certain material
properties. Suitable additives include, for example, mold release
agents, slip agents, surface energy modifiers, inorganic fillers
and/or any other suitable additives. In certain embodiments, the
barrel portion can be coated with a substance to give it a high
slip characteristic, such as, e.g., with wax, polyethylene, a
combination of wax and polyethylene, cellophane, clay, and other
lubricants that can facilitate comfortable insertion.
[0033] The barrel portion can be sized and configured to house a
feminine hygiene product, such as, e.g., an absorbent tampon and/or
pessary. In certain embodiments, the size of the barrel portion can
be determined primarily by the dimensions of the feminine hygiene
product. For example, the barrel portion can have inner diameters
of about 5.0 millimeters to about 22.0 millimeters and a wall
thickness of about 0.2 millimeter to about 2.0 millimeters. The
inner diameter of the barrel portion can be greater than the
diameter of the feminine hygiene product to prevent the barrel
portion from interfering with the expulsion of the feminine hygiene
product from the barrel portion. In certain embodiments, the inner
diameter of the barrel portion can have varying diameters and
shapes to conform to the profiled shape of the enclosed feminine
hygiene product, such as, e.g., a tampon. The barrel portion can
have a length sufficient to house the feminine hygiene product
prior to the expulsion of the feminine hygiene product from the
applicator into the vagina.
[0034] The barrel portion can be of any suitable cross-sectional
shape. In certain embodiments, the barrel portion can include a
generally non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as, e.g., oval,
rectangular, elliptical, oblate, or other suitable shapes. The
barrel portion can have a cross-sectional shape that has a greater
thickness than width or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the
barrel portion can have a substantially uniform cross-section, such
as, e.g., having the same cross-section along the length. In other
embodiments, the barrel portion can have varying cross-sectional
shapes and/or cross-sectional sizes, such as, e.g., a barrel
portion having a smaller cross-sectional area near the insertion
end of the barrel and a larger cross-sectional area near the
opposite end.
[0035] The insertion end of the barrel portion can be open-end or
closed-ended. In certain embodiments, the insertion end of the
barrel portion can include petals, corrugations, pleats, a film
cap, or other means for covering the barrel portion prior to
expulsion of the tampon. In certain embodiments, the material, such
as, e.g., a feminine care product can be loaded into the barrel
portion prior to covering the insertion end of the barrel portion.
Alternatively, the insertion end of the barrel portion can be
covered prior to loading the feminine hygiene product into the
barrel portion.
[0036] The plunger can be constructed from any suitable material.
The barrel portion can be constructed from any suitable material.
Suitable materials include, for example, paper, paperboard,
cardboard, cellulose, such as, e.g., molded cellulose, or any
combinations thereof, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene,
polystyrene, polyvinylchloride, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate,
polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylamide, polyamide, nylon, polyimide,
polyester, polycarbonate, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoate,
ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, silicone, thermoplastic
starch, trans-poly isoprene, derivatives thereof, copolymers
thereof, mixtures thereof, or any suitable smooth plastic material.
Suitable plungers are disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,468
and U.S. Pat. No. 5,558,631. In certain embodiments, additives can
be included in the material to alter or enhance certain material
properties. Suitable additives include, for example, mold release
agents, slip agents, surface energy modifiers, pearlescent agents,
inorganic fillers, and/or any other suitable additives.
[0037] The plunger can be hollow or solid. In certain embodiments,
the plunger can have a hollow interior, a first end, and a second
end opposed to the first end. The first end is the portion of the
plunger that pushes against the tampon during the expulsion of the
tampon from the barrel portion. The plunger may be unitary. The
second end is the portion of the plunger in which the axial force
is applied to expel the tampon from the barrel portion. In certain
embodiments, the plunger can have a locking mechanism, such as,
e.g., a locking mechanism that retains the plunger within the
barrel portion and/or grip portion of the applicator prior to
depression of the plunger and expulsion of the tampon. Examples of
such locking mechanisms are described in, for example, U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,019,744 and 6,450,986. The plunger may comprise an outer
sleeve and an inner sleeve, the inner sleeve capable of slidingly
engaging with the outer sleeve.
[0038] In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the applicator
can contact and/or conform to at least a portion of the surface of
the tampon. Rigid insertion end structures can be shaped in a
suitable manner, such as, e.g., by injection molding, or by
reshaping in a secondary process to provide at least a degree of
profiled shape observation. Alternatively, insertion ends of
applicators made from flexible or pliable materials, such as films,
paper and flexible wovens or non-wovens, can also be used. Such
flexible or pliable insertion ends include those which partially or
fully enclose the tampon comprising a "sleeve" or a "tube," such
as, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,922,422 and 2,922,423; a "sheath,"
such as, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,092,427 and 3,749,093; a
"barrel," such as, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,475; a "bag," such
as, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 3,358,686; or a "film enclosure," such
as, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,659.
[0039] It has been found that applicator fit between the tube or
barrel and plunger may be impacted by the color chosen and the
opacity of the applicator. Color is created by adding colorants to
the base resin. Plastic colorants are compounds of typically 3-5
pigments plus additives in a resin or liquid carrier. The biggest
hurdle of any colorant development is to develop a colorant that
processes well and that does not impact the technical
specifications of the molded applicator. These colorant may act as
contaminants to the base resin and therefore impact various
properties of the resin that may impact the applicator
tolerances.
[0040] Changing the color of an injected-molded part in a
semi-crystalline polymer changes the dimensions of the parts
produced. Pigments, among other additives, may act as nuclei for
crystal growth. However, different colorants may have different
efficiency. The different colorants may and create different
crystal structures that manifest themselves as dimensional
differences between colors. These dimensional differences can
result in unacceptable performance of the part or an assembly of
parts.
[0041] One of the possible manifestations is shrinkage by the
polymer. Shrinkage is inherent to polyolefin processing and results
from crystallization/re-arranging of polymer chains on cooling.
More shrink occurs in the flow direction which can lead to
considerable internal stresses within the molded applicator. The
type of pigment (size, shape and coating) may impact the amount of
shrinkage. White (primarily TiO2 pigment) is close to the
un-pigmented natural base resin and creates little shrinkage.
However, the greens and blues are often the worst colors exhibiting
superior heat resistance and also very high shrinkage due their
pigment size and shape.
[0042] One possible measure that relates to part dimensions is the
onset crystallization temperature of the applicator resin. The
onset crystallization temperature is a direct measure of the
nucleating efficiency because nucleating agents change the
activation energy required before crystallization can begin, and
the onset crystallization temperature is the energy level at which
the activation energy has been satisfied. The onset crystallization
temperature can impact the shrinkage rate of the resin as it cools.
Further, modifying the onset crystallization temperature can impact
the shrinkage rate. Once an applicator mold is created for a first
resin, that mold may or may not create a second applicator with the
desirable dimensional tolerance if a different resin is used even
though the same applicator mold was used to create both
applicators. However, it has been found that by controlling the
onset crystallization temperature, one may use different resins in
a mold and achieve a final applicator with similar dimensions and
fit.
[0043] Further, by matching the onset crystallization temperature
of the different resins, the opacity of a given applicator may be
increased while still using the same mold to create the first
applicator using a first resin and the second applicator using a
second resin.
[0044] Further, by matching the onset crystallization temperature
of the different resins, one may have an array of feminine care
products having a first resin first color and a second resin second
color while still using the same mold and creating applicators with
essentially the same dimensions. For example, by matching the onset
crystallization temperatures so that the delta is less than 0.4 C,
one can use a resin having a first color that has an a* color value
between -128 and 128 and a b* color value between -128 and 128 to
create a first applicator and a second resin having a second color
that has an a* color value between -128 and 128 and a b* color
value between -128 and 128 to create a second applicator. The first
color a* color value may be between 0 and 128. The first color and
the second color may have a delta a* color value of less than
20.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 OTX Min. Opacity Sample Std OTX Std ID
Sample Description Avg Dev Delta Avg Dev R Tampax Pocket Pearl
110.71 0.056 n/a 93.1 3.03 Blue Regular A Tampax Pearl Light 108.57
0.485 0.07 75.3 2.92 Blue Super B Invention Applicator, 108.64
0.056 50.2 3.11 Blue Super C U by K Sleek Blue 108.68 0.225 0.42
85.3 2.03 Regular D U by K Sleek Green 109.59 0.174 93.0 1.13
Regular E U by K Sleek Purple 109.17 0.298 Regular F U by K Click
Fuchsia 109.21 0.848 0.97 Regular G U by K Click Green 108.24 0.097
Regular H Equate Light Green 106.64 0.288 0.18 52.5 2.3 Regular I
Equate Light Blue 106.82 0.091 40.7 1.23 Regular J DG Health Light
107.02 0.042 n/a 87.4 1.27 Blue Regular
[0045] As shown in Table 1, Sample B and Sample A have an onset
crystallization temperature delta of less than 0.4 for an
applicator that is the same size. It has been found that by having
a onset crystallization temperature delta of a first resin to a
second resin of less than 0.4 degrees Celsius, such as, for
example, between 0.01 and 0.4, between 0.02 and 0.3, between 0.05
and 0.2 and between 0.07 and 0.4 degrees Celsius, that one may
utilize the same mold to create applicators of the same size with
either the first or the second resin while maintaining dimensions
within the desirable tolerance levels. As shown in Table 1, the
onset crystallization temperature may be less than 110 degrees
Celsius, such as, for example, below 109 degrees Celsius, below 108
degrees Celsius, or below 107 degrees Celsius. The onset
crystallization temperature may be between 107 degrees Celsius and
109 degrees Celsius.
[0046] Further one may increase the opacity to greater than 41%,
such as, for example, between 41% and 99% opacity, between 41% and
75%, between 41% and 51%, between 60% and 95% opacity, and between
75% and 90% opacity.
[0047] An array of feminine care products having a first product
having a first applicator and a second product having a second
applicator, wherein each of the first applicator and second
applicator comprise a barrel portion comprising an insertion end
and a grip end disposed opposite the insertion end of the barrel
portion; and a plunger slidingly engaged with the barrel portion;
wherein the barrel portion and the plunger of each of the first
applicator and second applicator comprise a polyolefin resin,
wherein the first applicator comprises a first color, wherein the
second applicator comprises a second color, wherein each of the
first applicator and the second applicator comprise a onset
crystallization temperature, wherein the onset crystallization
temperature of the first applicator and the onset crystallization
temperature of the second applicator differ by less than 0.4
degrees Celcius, and wherein the opacity of each of the first
applicator and the second applicator is greater than 41.
The opacity of each of the first applicator and the second
applicator may be greater than 41 and less than 75, preferably
greater than 41 and less than 51. The plungers for each of the
applicators of the first product and second product may be unitary.
The plungers for each of the applicators of the first product and
second product may have an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve,
wherein the inner sleeve is slidingly engaged with the outer
sleeve. The feminine care product may be selected from the group
including tampons and pessaries. The onset crystallization
temperature of each of the first applicator and the second
applicator may be less 109 degrees Celsius. The onset
crystallization temperature of each of the first applicator and the
second applicator may be greater than 107 degrees Celsius. The
first applicator barrel portion may have a first color and the
first applicator plunger may have a third color different from the
first color.
[0048] The first color may be an a* color value between -128 and
128 and a b* color value between -128 and 128. The second color may
be an a* color value between -128 and 128 and a b* color value
between -128 and 128. The first color a* color value and the second
color a* color value may differ by less than 20. The first color a*
color value may be between 0 and 128.
[0049] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing an applicator 30. The
applicator 30 comprises an insertion member or barrel 32 and a
plunger 40. The applicator barrel 32 has an insertion tip 34
proximal a first end 33 and an opposing withdrawal end 35. The
applicator barrel region 36 is adapted to contain a feminine care
device such as, e.g., a tampon or intravaginal incontinence device
(e.g., a pessary). The applicator withdrawal end 35 contains a grip
region 37 that may be an indentation region. The grip region 37 may
also be demarcated from the barrel region 36, such as, e.g., by one
or more shoulder regions 38. Grip regions may comprise three
dimensional surface elements that can protrude outward from the
grip region.
[0050] Typically, tampons are constructed from an absorbent
material, which has been compressed in any or all of the width
direction, the radial direction, and the axial direction, in order
to provide a tampon, which is of a size and stability to allow
insertion within the vagina or other body cavity. The tampon is
preferably in a so-called `self-sustaining` form, e.g. it will tend
to retain its general shape and size, before use. This
self-sustaining form need not persist during actual use of the
tampon. The tampons herein are typically fluid expanding, e.g. the
tampon will expand (or un-compress) upon contact with fluid such as
bodily fluids.
[0051] The tampon has a top portion, having a topside or top
(point) and a bottom side or point, both typically positioned at or
forming the ends of the longitudinal axis of the tampon. The top
portion of the tampon is typically the portion, which is positioned
under the petals, thus typically the part from the top edge of the
tube of the applicator to the top of the inserter tip. Because the
inserter tip has preferably an opening at the top, part of the op
portion of the tampon may be visible through this opening. The
tampon has an insertion end and a withdrawal end, whereby the
insertion end contains or is typically said top portion, whilst the
withdrawal end contains said bottom side.
[0052] The tampon may be straight or non linear in shape, such as
curved along the longitudinal axis. If the tampon is straight, the
length of tampon is the longest distance between the top portion
and bottom side and this is generally parallel to or even equal to
the longitudinal axis of the tampon. The tampon may be serpentine
as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,824,536, filed May 16, 2002,
entitled "Substantially Serpentine Shaped Tampon," issued to
Randall, et al. The tampon may be shaped to have varying perimeters
as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,932,805, filed May 16, 2002,
entitled "Shaped Tampon," issued to Kollwitz, et al. The tampon may
be discontinuous as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,597,267, filed
Apr. 18, 2007, entitled "Tampon Having at Least One Physical
Discontinuity," issued to Noel, et al. The tampon may be shaped to
have improved aspect ratios when compressed as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,684,987, filed Feb. 8, 2007, entitled "Self-Orienting
Tampon Having Improved Aspect Ratio," issued to Hasse, et al. The
tampon may have an assymetric insertion end as described in U.S.
Pat. No. 8,216,202, filed Sep. 22, 2006, entitled "Tampon Having an
Asymmetric Insertion End," issued to Minoguchi, et al.
[0053] The tampon may be shaped to have a desired shape after
expansion. An example of this is described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,953,456, entitled "Tampon Having An Oval Form After Expansion and
Process For Producing the Same," issued to Fuchs, et al. The
tampons may be compressed in a manner that allows for faster
expansion and for increased expansion in the width dimension as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,814, filed Oct. 24, 2000, entitled
"Protection Tampon and Method of Making," issued to Agyapong, et
al.
[0054] The tampon has a width, which may vary in different portions
of the tampon. If the tampon is straight, the transverse axis of
the tampon is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and
then the tampon width is typically perpendicular to the length.
Often, the tampon is typically cylindrical, having preferably an
endless sidewall or endless longitudinal side, preferably with a
flat bottom side and with a rounded or dome-shaped top portion;
then, the width of the tampon corresponds to the largest
cylindrical cross-section diameter, and the length corresponds to
the longest distance between the bottom side and the top of the
rounded portion.
[0055] The tampon may have a plurality of recessed portions as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,549,982, filed Nov. 21, 2003, entitled
"Tampon with Recessed Portions Having Multiple Widths," issued to
Carlin. The tampon may contain adjacent wide and narrow portions as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,939,340, filed May 21, 2004, entitled
"Tampon with Adjacent Wide and Narrow Raised Portions," issued to
Berges. The tampon may have one or more longitudinal grooves. The
longitudinal grooves may be located in the insertion end, the
withdrawal end, or both the withdrawal and insertion ends. The
grooves may be offset as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,029,485,
filed Feb. 2, 2005, entitled "Tampon with Offset Grooves," issued
to Jensen.
[0056] The tampon may be a non-layered, uniform structure, or it
may be a laminar structure comprised of integral or discrete
layers, or the tampon may have a folded structure, or it may be
rolled, or any other of the structures which are known in the art.
Generally, the tampon herein has to have a certain minimal
rigidity, to facilitate the expulsion through the film cap. An
additional patch may be located between the absorbent compressed
member and the overwrap as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,048,053,
filed Apr. 14, 2008, entitled "Tampon Having an Auxiliary Patch,"
issued to Minoguchi, et al.
[0057] The tampon may be constructed from a wide variety of
liquid-absorbing materials commonly used in absorbent articles such
as rayon, cotton, or comminuted wood pulp which is generally
referred to as airfelt. Examples of other suitable absorbent
materials include creped cellulose wadding; meltblown polymers
including coform; chemically stiffened, modified or cross-linked
cellulosic fibers; synthetic fibers such as crimped polyester
fibers; peat moss; foam; tissue including tissue wraps and tissue
laminates; or any equivalent material or combinations of materials,
or mixtures of these. Preferred absorbent materials comprise
cotton, rayon (including tri-lobal and conventional rayon fibers,
and needle punched rayon), folded tissues, woven materials,
nonwoven webs, synthetic and/or natural fibers. The tampon and any
component thereof may comprise a single material or a combination
of materials. Acceptable types of rayon include GALAXY Rayon (a
tri-lobed rayon structure) available as 6140 Rayon from Acordis
Fibers Ltd., of Hollywall, England and SARILLE L rayon (a round
fiber rayon), also available from Acordis Fibers Ltd. Suitable
cotton material includes, long fiber cotton, short fiber cotton,
cotton linters, T-fiber cotton, card strips, and comber cotton.
Preferably, the cotton layers should be a scoured & bleached
cotton absorbent with a glycerin finish, a lemolin finish, or other
suitable finish. Additionally, superabsorbent materials, such as
superabsorbent polymers or absorbent gelling materials may be
incorporated into the tampon.
[0058] The absorbent material may be surrounded with an overwrap.
The overwrap may have liquid permeable material, if desired. Such
materials may comprise rayon, cotton, bicomponent fibers, or other
suitable natural or synthetic fibers known in the art. Rayon,
polyethylene, polypropylene and blends of these are particularly
suited for use as cover material. The synthetic fibers may include,
but are not limited to, fibers such as polyester, polyolefin,
nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyacrylic, cellulose acetate
or bicomponent fibers. Natural fibers may include, but are not
limited to, those commonly known to be non-synthetic and of natural
origin such as cotton and/or rayon. In general, the natural fibers
may provide ready absorption and fluid wicking strength. The
synthetic fibers may balance the capillary strength of the blended
material, enabling the tampon to more readily slip against moist
tissue, resulting in easier removal and hence removal comfort. The
overwrap may be fluid wicking and may extend beyond the withdrawal
end of the abosrobent material to form a skirt portion as described
in U.S. Pat. No. 6,840,927, filed Nov. 16, 2001, entitled "Tampon
with Fluid Wicking Overwrap With Skirt Portion," issued to Hasse,
et al. Typically, the overwrap may extend from about 2 mm to about
30 mm beyond the withdrawal end of the absorbent material.
[0059] The ratio of synthetic fibers to natural fibers may fall in
the range of from about 90:10 to about 30:70. Alternatively, the
ratio of synthetic fibers to natural fibers may fall in the range
of from about 70:30 to about 40:60. The synthetic fibers may have
hydrophobic and/or hydrophilic surfaces. The synthetic fibers may
be inherently hydrophilic, or may preferably be treated to provide
such properties. The overwrap may comprise some level of
hydrophobic fibers as well, as long as it does not significantly
diminish the fluid wicking capacity of the overwrap of the
tampon.
[0060] The blend of fibers forming the overwrap may be made by any
number of techniques. The blends may be carded on webs. Commonly,
carded webs that are hydroentangled, thermally bonded, and resin
bonded all have application. In the latter case, the resin bonding
agent may be used in place of the synthetic fibers as the method
for tempering the aggressiveness of the natural fiber matrix. In
this case, all natural fiber may be used with a significant amount
of synthetic binder (10-30% by weight is common). Spunbond and
meltblown processes, combining synthetic fibers extruded/spun
onto/into a mat or carded web of natural fibers provide other
acceptable techniques. The basis weight of the overwrap may fall
into a range from about 10, 12 or 15 grams per square meter to
about 30, 40, 50 or 60 grams per square meter. The materials for
the tampon may be formed into a fabric, web, or batt that is
suitable for use in the pledget by any suitable process such as
airlaying, carding, wetlaying, or other known techniques.
[0061] Fluid pervious overwrap may be made by any number of known
techniques, but is preferably an apertured nonwoven material. The
nonwoven material may be made by carding, meltblowing, spunbonding,
spunlacing, air laying, and the like. The apertures may be zoned as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,994,387, filed on Oct. 17, 2007,
entitled "Tampon having Zoned Apertured Overwrap," issued to
Minoguchi, et al. In one embodiment, the apertures are formed by
forming a plurality of spaced, melt stabilized regions, and then
ring-rolling the web to stretch the web and form apertures in the
melt stabilized regions, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,628,097
and 5,916,661, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference
herein.
[0062] It is desirable that the tampons are made in the absorbency
ranges, which are currently required, by the United States Food and
Drug Administration and corresponding agencies of many other
governments, which regulate tampon absorbency. A "Super Plus"
absorbency tampon should have a total absorbency as measured by the
industry standard Syngyna test of 12-15 grams. A "Super" absorbency
tampon should have a total absorbency as measured by the Syngyna
test of 9-12 grams. A "Regular" absorbency tampon should have a
Syngyna absorbency of 6-9 grams. A "Junior" absorbency tampon
should have a Syngyna absorbency of less than 6 grams. Providing a
tampon which properly falls within these absorbency ranges requires
that the total amount and type of absorbent material be
controlled.
[0063] The tampon typically contains a withdrawal cord or string,
which is generally attached to at least the withdrawal bottom side
of the tampon. This may be any type of withdrawal cord known in the
art, for example a generally braided (or twisted) withdrawal cord.
A conventional type of withdrawal cord (in terms of thickness,
material composition, etc.) may be periodically braided with a
thicker slub of absorbent fibrous material, which acts as an
absorbing member, to form a structure to be connected to the
remaining of the tampon. In such an embodiment, the portion of the
cord, which will act as the withdrawal cord, may be treated to make
it non-absorbent or even hydrophobic. It may also be a withdrawal
cord as described in commonly assigned and co-pending U.S.
application Ser. No. 09/309,467, filed on May 10, 1999 in the name
of Taylor, et al. The tampon may contain any additional functional
ingredients, such as antimicrobial agents, lubricants, antioxidants
etc, as known in the art.
[0064] The tampon and applicator may be placed inside a wrapper or
wrapper material. By `wrapper material` it is meant herein any
material suitable to be used for hygienically wrapping tampons.
Said wrapper material has two surfaces; the `inner surface` is
directed towards the wrapped tampon, whereas the `outer surface` is
aligned opposite to said inner surface. Typically, suitable wrapper
materials for use herein are flexible polymeric films, having a
thickness of less than 1 mm Examples for wrapper materials suitable
for use are polymeric films made of polyethylene, polypropylene,
polyester, cellophane, polyamide, poly(vinyl chloride),
ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer and the like. Alternatively,
heat-shrinkable films, stretch films, pre-stretched elastic
material, or combinations thereof may be used to create the
wrapper. While not limited to a given composition, preferred
compositions of heat-shrinkable and stretch films comprise
primarily polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, or
polyvinyl chloride. Polystyrene and polyethylene-terephtalate
(PET), although being not heat sealable, are also suitable for use.
Wrappers consisting of those materials can be closed by gluing with
an adhesive. Other generally occlusive materials include metallic
foils, such as aluminium foil. While occlusive wrapper materials
are often preferred, in other situations non-occlusive or porous
materials can be used, such as nonwovens, wovens, scrims, meshes
and papers. Such non-occlusive materials can be made occlusive by
combinations such as by lamination with or by coating with
occlusive material. In the case of cellulosic papers, examples
include lamination with a polymeric film such as a polyolefinic
composition or coating or impregnation of the paper with wax. The
aforementioned materials can be coated with various chemical
compounds to improve their barrier properties or the ability for
sealing. The wrapper may have a line of weakness or an improved
opening means as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,955,665, filed May
23, 2002, entitled "Tampon Wrapper with Improved Opening Means,"
issued to Domeier, et al. or U.S. Pat. No. 8,302,844, filed Nov.
20, 2006, entitled "Wrapper Having a Predetermined Line of
Weakness," issued to Mc Connell, et al.
Procedure to Measure Onset Crystallization Temperature
[0065] Use a Differential Scanning calorimeter (DSC) according to
ASTM D3418. Follow ASTM D3418 to calibrate the DSC instrument and
to prepare the sample. Using the following modifications, determine
the onset temperature of the crystallization peak (OTX) in .degree.
C. for the sample using the following temperature program. [0066]
1. Equilibrate the sample at 200.degree. C. to erase previous
thermal history. [0067] 2. Hold the sample at 200.degree. C. for 5
minutes. [0068] 3. Ramp the sample to 120.degree. C. at a rate of
50.degree. C. per minute. [0069] 4. Hold the sample at 120.degree.
C. for 1 minute to stabilize the temperature. [0070] 5. Ramp the
sample to 90.degree. C. at a rate of 2.degree. C. per minute. For
each sample, use the DSC software to determine the intersection of
two asymptotes, as shown in FIG. 2. Record the onset temperature
crystallization peak (OTX) to the nearest 0.01.degree. C. Calculate
OTX for the 3 replicates and report the average OTX to the nearest
0.01.degree. C.
Tampon Applicator Opacity, Color and Color Masking
[0071] All opacity, color and color masking measurements are made
using a 0.degree./45.degree. spectrophotometer suitable for making
standard CIE L*a*b* color measurements (e.g. Hunter Labscan XE
spectrophotometer, Hunter Associates Laboratory Inc., Reston Va. or
equivalent). The diameter of the instrument's measurement port
should be smaller than the dimensions of the sample. Analyses are
performed in a room controlled at about 23.degree. C..+-.2.degree.
C. and 50%.+-.2% relative humidity. Samples are conditioned at the
same condition for 2 hours before testing. Samples are prepared by
first removing and discarding the pledget and plunger from the
barrel. Using an Exacto knife, the finger-grip portion as well as
the petal portion of the barrel is removed. The barrel is then cut
open with a longitudinal slice from the petal end to the
finger-grip region. The sample should be free from creases,
wrinkles, tears, and other obvious defects. For all testing, the
sample is positioned so that the outer surface of the applicator as
it is converted will be the surface of the sample that faces the
orifice of the instrument sample port. The sample is positioned so
that it lies flat and the longitudinal centerline between the petal
and finger-grip regions is centered over the spectrophotometer
orifice. Opacity is measured by contrast ratio. Calibrate the
instrument per the vendor instructions using the standard black and
white tiles provided by the vendor. Set the spectrophotometer to
use the CIE XYZ color space, with a D65 standard illumination, a
10.degree. observer and the UV filter set to nominal. Place the
sample flat against the instrument's measurement port and then
place the white standard tile onto the opposing surface of the
sample such that it completely covers the measurement port. Take a
reading for XYZ and record to 0.01 units. Without moving the
sample, remove the white tile and replace it with the black
standard tile. Take a second reading for XYZ and record to 0.01
units. Repeat this procedure for a total of three (3) replicate
samples. Opacity is calculated by dividing the Y value measured
using the black tile as backing, divided by the Y value measured
using the white tile as backing, then multiplying the ratio by 100.
Record the opacity value to the nearest 0.01%. Calculate opacity
for the 3 replicates and report the average opacity to the nearest
0.01%. The color scale values, utilized herein to define the
darkness/lightness of the tampon applicator material according to
the present invention, is the widely accepted CIE LAB scale.
Measurements are made on the sample directly after measuring the
opacity. Set the spectrophotometer to use the CIE LAB color space,
with a D65 standard illumination, a 10.degree. observer and the UV
filter set to nominal. Color measurements are made on the sample
with the white standard tile as backing. Place the sample flat
against the instrument's measurement port and then place the white
standard tile onto the opposing surface of the sample such that it
completely covers the measurement port. Take a reading for L*, a*,
b* and record to 0.01 units. Repeat this procedure for a total of
three (3) replicate samples. Report the average L*, a*, b* values
to the nearest 0.01 units.
[0072] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be
understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values
recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension
is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally
equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension
disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."
[0073] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention. To the
extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document
conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a
document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition
assigned to that term in this document shall govern.
[0074] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *